Following up after an interview is important for several reasons. In fact, a survey conducted by CareerBuilder found that 22% of hiring managers are less likely to hire a candidate who doesn’t send a follow-up note, while 77% of hiring managers view a thank-you email as a key factor in making their decision. This answers the question on so many candidates minds about whether a thank you email is sufficient. Not only is it sufficient, but it also is widely considered appropriate.
Following up also shows appreciation for the interviewer’s time and the opportunity to discuss the position and it reinforces interest.
Always Thank your Interviewer
Aim to send your thank you email within 24 hours of your interview. This shows you are prompt and genuinely interested. Then, follow the next steps for the perfect follow up.
1. Wait ONE Week
Before following up if you have not been contacted by the interviewer or hiring manager regarding the position. Hiring teams need adequate time to interview candidates and make decisions. If the interviewer provided a specific timeline during your interview, adjust your follow-up accordingly to align with that timeframe.
If the interviewer provided a specific timeline during your interview, adjust your follow-up accordingly to align with that timeframe.
2. Send an Email
Address the person you interviewed with by their first name. This will make the email more sincere. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company, reminding the interviewer of your genuine interest.
3. Mention the Job Title
Mention the role you’re following up about and the date you interviewed. Maintain a professional and courteous tone. Acknowledge that you understand the hiring process can be lengthy and that you’re following up to stay informed. Avoid sounding impatient or frustrated.
4. Confirm Your Interest
In the position and that you are eager to hear about the next steps. Research by TheLadders suggests that candidates who send follow-up emails are perceived as more enthusiastic and serious about the position, which can influence the final decision, especially when hiring managers are choosing between similarly qualified candidates.
5. End With a CTA
Ask for an update on the status of the position. Following up promptly can also potentially accelerate the decision-making process. According to Recruitment & Employment Confederation, 45% of employers reported that timely follow-up from candidates can speed up their hiring decisions.
If you don’t hear back after your initial follow-up thank-you email, it’s generally appropriate to wait about one to two weeks before reaching out again. Here’s additional tips:
Check for Updates: Before sending a follow-up, ensure there haven’t been any updates on the company’s career page or any communication you might have missed.
Be Patient: Hiring processes can be complex, and delays are not uncommon. Be patient and give the company some time to complete their evaluations.
Content of the Follow-Up: In your second follow-up email, be polite and concise. Express your continued interest in the role and inquire if there have been any updates regarding the hiring process. You can also briefly reiterate why you’re enthusiastic about the position and how your skills align with the company’s needs.
Here's a sample template for a second follow-up email:
Subject: Follow-Up on [Position] Interview
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my interview for the [Position] role on [Date]. I am very excited about the opportunity to join [Company] and contribute to [specific aspect of the role or team].
I understand that the hiring process can be thorough, and I wanted to inquire if there have been any updates regarding the position or the next steps in the process. I remain very interested in the role and am eager to contribute my skills and experience to your team.
Thank you again for the opportunity and for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your LinkedIn Profile, or design portfolio if applicable]
